Shop around before you buy. Many of the stalls in the markets have the exact same stuff because they’re representing the same leather shops. It doesn’t hurt to ask the price of a similar item in a few places before you start thinking about handing over your money. The prices could vary by €5-10.
Even if there’s a printed price on something, don’t just fork over the cash. This is the place to bargain. It’s an art and a sport. Ask “Quanto costa?” or “How much?” Then look like you’re trying to decide whether it’s too much. If they don’t immediately offer a discount when you ask the price, just wait. This is where shopping around before you buy comes in handy, because you’ll know exactly where the lowest starting price is. When you start walking away, that’s when the fun begins. If it gets to a price you like, then go for it. If not, offer what you’re prepared to pay. Of course, if you really want it, you’ll have to be prepared to pay whatever they ask. If you’re okay with walking away, however, then your bargaining power is stronger.
Be prepared to pay for almost everything in cash, and have a lot of smaller bills handy. If you only want to pay €40 for a wallet and you’ve only got a €100 bill, they’ll have to break it, so you’re not in a good position. It’s very enticing to be holding out the exact amount of cash, and the vendor knows the deal could be done. Exact change is as intoxicating to them as the smell of leather is to you, so use that to your advantage.
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